BMW Is Expanding Recall To 1.6 Million Vehicles Worldwide Over Potential Fire Risk
BMW is expanding its latest recall to over 1.6 million of its cars worldwide due to possible fluid leaks that could result in a fire.
The problem stems from some diesel vehicles in which the coolant could leak from the exhaust gas recirculation module, which is part of the emissions reduction system. There is a potential for these leaks to combine with the soot from the exhaust system which are at high temperatures, possibly leading to fire.
Due to outbreak of fires reported in South Korea, BMW had decided to recall 480,000 vehicles across Asia and Europe. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. On further examination of the fault, it has led to an expansion of the maintenance action.
The recall is for cars manufactured between 2010 and 2017. The carmaker in a statement said that customers with affected cars would be contacted in due course. It is estimated that there are 54,700 vehicles in the U.S and Canada alone.
As part of this same global recall, BMW Ireland will recall more than 10,000 cars here because of the same fire risk.
The exact number of affected cars here is 10,384 cars, mostly diesel versions of the 3 Series and 5 Series built between 2014 and 2016. Other cars also affected are the 1, 4 and 6 Series models. Four-cylinder engines with a 2.0-litre capacity are at the root of the problem.
The South Korean government reported a spate of engine fires in the first half of the year 2018. It is estimated by the country’s transport ministry that there have been 27 incidents between January and July. This has prompted a government probe and a major backlash from consumers. BMW Korea Chairman Kim Hyo-joon said at a press conference.
"For the recent series of fire incidents happened in the country, we sincerely apologize for causing worry and anxiety among people and government authorities,"
South Korean news outlets are reporting that a total of 13 BMW owners filed a class action lawsuit against BMW, claiming compensation worth €3,900 ($4,447.13) each, saying they could not drive their cars for fear the faulty part could catch fire.
BMW Ireland will be in contact with Irish owners in the coming weeks to have the issue resolved at dealerships and they have made a statement saying that anyone concerned about their car can contact their local retailer without having to wait.
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